River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   Amsterdam

   Mon, Aug 05, 2024

   Welcome to Amsterdam. The Netherland’s capital city is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.  

   Raise your glass to the marvellous cruise ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception.

   Please book your flight to arrive into Amsterdam prior to 05:00 PM.

   
   Meals: Dinner
2. Day 2
   Utrecht

   Tue, Aug 06, 2024

   This morning will be spent on board your luxury Scenic Space-Ship sailing towards Utrecht. Relax in the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the scenery rolling by.

   At lunch time you will arrive at Utrecht, a canal lined city boasting a multitude of green space, lively streets and hidden alleyways leaving you intrigued by what is around the next corner.
    

   Freechoice:
   Select from the following Scenic Freechoice activities and explore your way:
   
   Highlights of Utrecht: The city of Utrecht is dotted with green parklands and lively canals lined with terraces and warehouses. The medieval Old Town houses the impressive Domtoren which acts as a beacon guiding its visitors back to the centre of the city. Explore all this and more during your tour with an expert local guide.
   
   Excursion to De Haar Castle: A true fairy tale, De Haar Castle is the largest castle in the Netherlands and has all you could ever want from a castle and more. Cross the suspension bridge that spans the impressive moat to this truly remarkable castle. Inside, wander the rooms furnished with classic furniture and admire the turrets and towers, several offering wonderful views out to the spectacular rose gardens.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3. Day 3
   Veere

   Wed, Aug 07, 2024

   You will arrive in Veere this morning, one of The Netherland’s prettiest villages whose historic harbour is filled with bobbing yachts. While its beginnings date to the 13th century, Veere flourished in the 16th century when it became an important port for Scottish wool. This prosperity lasted two centuries, and to this day Scottish ties are strong.
    

   Freechoice:
   A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:
   
   Guided City Tour: Discover many of the hundreds of heritage buildings of Veere on a guided tour. Set on the Veerse Meer Lake, the village is home to a harbour lined with Scottish merchant houses, a 15th century town hall with tower, a defensive tower that was later used as an inn and lighthouse, and Grote Kerk, an imposing Gothic church that has also been used as a hospital and poorhouse.
   
   Cycling Tour: Join your local guide as you ride though the village of Veere, seeing all its key sights as well as the unspoilt natural beauty along the dykes in the surrounding area.
   
   Delta Works Visit: Transfer from Veere to tour the Delta Works, a complex series of dams purposely created to protect the population on the Delta plain from flooding. Discover this impressive engineering feat and see one of the Storm Surge Barrier that make up the project.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4. Day 4
   Antwerp

   Thu, Aug 08, 2024

   This morning you will arrive in Belgium’s second city, Antwerp. Full of historical and cultural contrasts, Antwerp has a melange of architectural wonders, a medieval centre with cobbled streets and Gothic buildings, many that were severely bombed during WWII, blended with modern architectural wonders. It’s also the diamond capital of the world, with 70 per cent of the world’s diamonds traded there.

   Freechoice:
   Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:
   
   Guided walking tour: Join your local guide on a walking tour through this beautiful city, known as the diamond capital of the world. Explore sights such as the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen Castle, the Medieval fortress, and main square lined with extravagant buildings.
   
   Excursion to Ypres & Passchendaele: On a full day excursion from Antwerp, visit the towns of Passchendaele and Ypres to learn about the WWI battle of Passchendaele. Visit memorials dedicated to the 325,000 allied troops who perished during this terrible battle, learn about the strategies put in place to defend against the German troops and learn how this region was rebuilt in the aftermath. Tour includes lunch in a local restaurant.
   
   Excursion to Bruges: Transfer via coach to Bruges where a local guide will walk you through the main sights of the city including the medieval centre. Highlights will include the medieval Bell Tower and the Belfry of Bruges. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces (cobblestone) and extensive walking, tour is recommended for guests with a high level of fitness.

   Spend the afternoon exploring the city of Antwerp at your own pace or return to your Space-Ship and relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5. Day 5
   Nijmegen

   Fri, Aug 09, 2024

   The oldest city in the Netherland, Nijmegen has a long history that trace back to the Roman Empire. Combined with lush green parklands and beautiful landscape, Nijmegen is the perfect city to start your morning.

   Freechoice:
   Make your choice from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:
   
   Arnhem Airborne Museum: Visit the Arnhem Airborne Museum with your local guide to learn about the Battle of Arnhem. The Airborne Experience allows you to follow in the footsteps of British parachutists as they made their way to Arnhem in September 1944 and to meet the cheering citizens who had been oppressed by the German occupiers for four long years.
   
   Biking tour of Arnhem: Join your fellow travellers on an active biking tour of the Arnhem region. Enjoy commentary from your local guide and take in the beautiful countryside as you stop at some key attractions.
   
   Netherlands Open Air Museum: Discover the stories and immerse yourself in life in Holland from years gone by. Your local guide will take you on an exploration of this fascinating 44-hectare outdoor museum, to see replicas of historic houses, mills and farmhouses, and to learn about Dutch work, customs and traditions.
   
   Het Loo Royal Palace: Het Loo Palace dates to 1685 and served as the royal family's summer home for centuries. Since 1984 it has been turned into an incredible museum showcasing the rich history of the Dutch royal family. Travel to the town of Appeldorn and admire the elaborately decorated rooms, an impressive collection of coach stables and the magnificent gardens of Paleis Het Loo.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   Düsseldorf

   Sat, Aug 10, 2024

   Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Dusseldorf this morning. Wake up to a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining.  

   Dusseldorf is an affluent city, which was dubbed ‘Little Paris’ by Napoleon. The city is filled to the brim with museums and galleries, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets, an old town with around 260 pubs and bars, and a harbour precinct that blends the old with new: historic quay walls, warehouses and silos neighbour striking architecturally designed buildings by the likes of Frank Gehry.  

   Freechoice:
   Choose from one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:
   
   City walking tour: Explore Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour, from its gentrified harbour to its charming old town. Transformed from a once abandoned area to a haven of architectural masterpieces, Media Harbour is a fascinating mix of old and new. The Old Town is referred to as the world’s longest bar for its high concentration of drinking spots and is also home to the 450-year-old city hall and Castle Tower, which dates to the 13th century.
   
   Cycling tour: Cycle along the banks of the Rhine River towards one of the most historic regions of Dusseldorf, Kaiserswerth. Enjoy the wonderful scenery, including the fortress that has protected this region for over 1,000 years.
   
   Dusseldorf's Microbreweries: Take the opportunity to learn all about Dusseldorf's long tradition of beer production. Visit some well-known microbreweries and sample some delicious Altbier, the traditional ale produced in this region. The beer is named for the old method in which it is produced, using top-fermentation.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   Moselle Valley Cruising

   Sun, Aug 11, 2024

   Today sail along the curvaceous path of the Moselle River past quaint half-timbered villages, vine-covered slopes and hilltop castles that are perched proudly overlooking the river.  

   Relax in the opulence of your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of the Moselle Valley during this full day of cruising. This afternoon you will be able to indulge in a Moselle Wine Degustation to sample local varieties.

   Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in the medieval town of Cochem this evening.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   Cochem

   Mon, Aug 12, 2024

   A medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a fairy-tale. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards.
    

   Freechoice:
   Explore the charms of Cochem your way with your choice of Scenic Freechoice activity:
   
   Walking tour of Cochem: Take a short transfer to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town seeing many historic buildings along the way.
   
   Cycling tour of Cochem: Join a local guide and hop on one of Scenic’s e-bikes to explore the town of Cochem and the surrounding region. See the impressive Reichsburg Castle sitting proudly above the city and ride through winding streets past half-timbered houses.

   This afternoon you will set sail for Bernkastel.  

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   Bernkastel

   Tue, Aug 13, 2024

   Another wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century, one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, and the ruins of Landshut Castle sitting high above on a hill, where archaeological remains from the 4th and 5th centuries were discovered in 2012.
    

   Freechoice:
   Decide how you will spend your morning from the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:
   
   Walking Tour of Bernkastel: Discover the town of Bernkastel, settled on the banks of the Moselle River. Your expert guide will explain the local architecture and culture during a guided tour and you will also have some time at leisure to discover Bernkastel on your own. Explore the pretty town with highlights including perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall).
   
   Excursion to Trier: Drive to Trier, a charming Roman city located near the Luxembourg border and the birthplace of Karl Marx. Explore this medieval town with a local guide to see the Porta Nigra, one of the best-preserved Roman gates in Germany, as well as the Trier Cathedral.
   
   Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are a winemaker's paradise. Learn about the varieties that are grown and produced in this region at one of the most renowned wineries in the region. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample a selection of local wines.
    

   Enrich
   This evening's Scenic Enrich
   
   Classical Concert at Liebfrauenkirche, Trier: Tonight, you are in for a special treat with a private classical concert in the breathtaking surroundings of Liebfrauenkirche, located in the heart of the Roman city of Trier. The Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site since 1986. During the concert, you can admire the incredible architecture and intricate stained-glass windows of the church as you are seduced by magnificent pieces of classical music.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day 10
    Koblenz

    Wed, Aug 14, 2024

    Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz has a melange of French and German cultures and it’s one of Germany’s oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a picturesque section of the mighty river that is protected by UNESCO. 
     

    Freechoice:
    This afternoon's Scenic Freechoice are diverse and unique, decide what suits you:
    
    Guided walking tour of Koblenz: Join your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town you will see impressive townhouses, each with its own unique history, charming squares and historic churches.
    
    Marksburg Castle: From Koblenz drive to Marksburg Castle, perched high above the Rhine River. Tour this impressive medieval castle that holds the honour of being the only castle on the Middle Rhine that has avoided destruction over the years. The castle dates to 1117 and is a perfect example of medieval architecture. Note: This is for active guests only and requires a good degree of fitness and mobility.
    
    Medieval Limburg: From Koblenz, travel by coach to the charming medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn. Here you will have the chance to walk the historic cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses. Make your way up to the Cathedral that overlooks the city as well as the Alte Lahnbrucke, the Old Bridge that straddles the Lahn river.

    Your Space-Ship will overnight in Koblenz, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day 11
    Rhine Gorge > Rüdesheim

    Thu, Aug 15, 2024

    Leaving Koblenz this morning you will cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley towards Rüdesheim. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairy-tale book.  

    The Rhine is abounded in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting female was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.    

    This afternoon you will disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia. The charming town centre is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.
     

    Freechoice:
    Make your selection for this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice tours:
    
    Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: From the pier take a mini train through the quaint winding streets of Rüdesheim to Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards enjoy free time to wander the town or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument where you’ll have breathtaking views over the river. This 17th century statue was built to commemorate the unification of Germany.
    
    Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rudesheim, a wine region famous for its Riesling, and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.

    Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart late this evening, allowing you some free time to wander the enchanting laneways of Rüdesheim.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
12. Day 12
    Mannheim

    Fri, Aug 16, 2024

    Freechoice:
    Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Mannheim this morning, where you'll enjoy several Scenic Freechoice options:
    
    Orientation Tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of the city, including the Old Town, and then enjoy some free time. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.
    
    Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, this option includes a visit to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest Wine Barrel located in the castle’s cellar. Enjoy some free time before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship via coach. There are some stairs and uneven ground, but the walking tour is not too strenuous.
    
    Excursion to Bad Durkheim: From Mannheim, it's just a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. On arrival, visit the renowned property of Fritz Ritter, a 9th generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine that you will have the opportunity to taste during your guided tour.

    This afternoon your Space-Ship will set sail for Kehl.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13. Day 13
    Kehl > Strasbourg

    Sat, Aug 17, 2024

    The city of Kehl is the gateway to Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region, where sherbert-coloured, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. On its central island, the UNESCO-listed Grand Ile, Petite France – named so for the 15th century hospital that was built here for patients suffering from syphilis ‘the French disease’ – was a medieval Tanners’ Quarters. Its meandering cobbled laneways are lined with a medley of buildings with shuttered windows and bright flowerboxes.
     

    Freechoice:
    A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are available for you to choose from today:
    
    Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile and its many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Drive to Strasbourg passing by many notable sites including the European Parliament. Please Note: this is an active walk.
    
    Canal Cruise of Strasbourg: Board a private canal boat for a cruise through the picturesque city of Strasbourg, seeing the European Parliament, the Imperial Quarter and Le Petite France. Please Note: there will be approximately 30 minutes of walking between the coach drop-off point and the canal dock.
    
    Excursion to Mittelbergheim: The French Alsace region is a culturally diverse wine-growing area that shares its border with Germany and Switzerland. Today you will visit the village of Mittelbergheim, a member of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France ('the most beautiful villages in France') association. In Mittelbergheim, enjoy a tasting at a local wine cellar before going to the neighbouring town of Obernai, where you will have free time to explore this vibrant location.

    Your Scenic Space-Ship departs later this evening, which means you have free time to wander Strasbourg at your own pace. Alternatively, return to your Space-Ship and take the time to unwind in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
14. Day 14
    Breisach

    Sun, Aug 18, 2024

    Located between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach is a food and wine destination that shares its border with the Alsace region. It was almost destroyed during WWII but was meticulously rebuilt with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses.
     

    Freechoice:
    A diverse range of Scenic Freechoice experiences are on offer to choose from today:
    
    Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Volcanic rocks make up a large part of the central and western Kaiserstuhl thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions more than 16 million years ago. Because of its loose covered volcanic soils, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a very good wine-producing region. During your visit, sample some of these delicious wines.
    
    Excursion to Colmar: A visit to Colmar is like stepping into a fairy tale. Likened to Venice due to its quaint canals, the city centre also features an abundance of historical half-timbered houses, some dating back a thousand years. Wander the cobblestoned streets lined with charming stores, cafes and don't miss the markets serving up delicious local produce.
    
    Black Forest: Journey into the Black Forest to the open-air museum of Vogtsbauernhof, which is home to a collection of historic farmhouses to show how people have lived in the region for 600 years, as well as exhibitions of traditional handicrafts and local products. During your visit, sample some of the iconic Black Forest Cake and learn how it is made during a baking demonstration.

    Return to your Scenic Space-Ship and toast to your final evening on board.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
15. Day 15
    Basel > Zurich

    Mon, Aug 19, 2024

    Farewell your Scenic Space-Ship this morning and transfer to Zurich where you will enjoy an overnight stay.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
16. Day 16
    Zurich > Bern

    Tue, Aug 20, 2024

    This morning, you will join a local guide for a walking tour of Zurich. Wander through the Old Town’s winding streets, the medieval square of Niederdorf, walk across bridges over the peaceful Limmat River, and admire the 9th century Fraumunster Church with its renowned stained-glass windows created by legendary artist Marc Chagall.

    Afterwards, you will transfer to the Swiss capital Bern for a two-night stay. Known as the Gateway to the Alps, this medieval city is resplendent with historic charm, traditional houses, narrow alleyways, Renaissance fountains and the 100-metre-tall cathedral all tightly packed on a bend of the River Aare. Its old town is World Heritage-listed and features six kilometres of arcades, which make up Europe’s longest weather-protected shopping promenade.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
17. Day 17
    Bern > Lucerne > Bern

    Wed, Aug 21, 2024

    Today you will enjoy an excursion to charming Lucerne, a city nestled at the foot of the Alps and on the shore of its namesake lake. Its famous 14th century wooden Chapel Bridge spans Lake Lucerne from the New Town to the Old Town and is home to the octagonal water tower built around 1300.

    Start the morning ascending the impressive Mount Rigi, also known as Queen of the Mountain, on Switzerland’s oldest cog wheel train before boarding a a cruise on Lake Lucerne from the village of Vitznau. The cruise will end in the heart of Lucerne where you’ll take a guided tour of the Old Town, including the flower-adorned bridge which is decorated with 17th century paintings that depict the history of both city and country. You’ll also visit the Baroque Jesuit Church of Saint Francis Xavier and the Lion Monument, a detailed sculpture that commemorates the Swiss guards who were massacred during the French Revolution.  

    Return to Bern for an evening at leisure.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
18. Day 18
    Bern > Montreux

    Thu, Aug 22, 2024

    Today you will travel to Montreux, stopping enroute at a renowned Chocolaterie where you will sample delicious Swiss chocolate before visiting the charming village of Gruyères, a town that looks like it hasn’t changed since the Middle Ages with its fortified castle standing atop a hill since the 13th century.
    
    Afterwards, you will continue to Montreux, a lakeside gem that has attracted the creative likes of Mary Shelley, Lord Byron and Freddie Mercury. This afternoon you will enjoy some free time to explore the city, which is home to the renowned annual Montreux Jazz Festival, the medieval Chateau de Chillon perched on the shores of Lake Geneva, and a scenic three-kilometre promenade walk.  

    Enrich
    Tonight’s Scenic Enrich: You will be taken to a chalet-style Swiss restaurant in the mountains overlooking Montreux where you will be treated to a delicious meal accompanied by traditional live music. Members of the Alphorn Academy of Switzerland will introduce you to the cultural importance of the Alphorn, a long wooden horn that was traditional used by shepherds to call cows in from the pastures.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
19. Day 19
    Montreux > Zermatt

    Fri, Aug 23, 2024

    This morning you will board a cruise on Lake Geneva to Chateau de Chillon, which you will explore on a guided tour. This 13th century castle was built on a rocky island on Lake Geneva. Learn about its defence strategies and view around 300 historic items on display from furniture to weapons to armour. Afterwards, travel to Täsch, where you will board a cogwheel train to the village of Zermatt for a two-night stay in a luxurious hotel.  

    Nestled at the foot of the world’s most famous mountain, the 4,478-metre Matterhorn, the village of Zermatt looks as though it has been plucked from the pages of a fairytale. When the landscape is blanketed in thick white snow, visitors flock here for exhilarating winter sports, and in summer they come to hike more than 100 trails that weave around its valleys, lakes and ridges. 

    
    Meals: Breakfast
20. Day 20
    Zermatt

    Sat, Aug 24, 2024

    Zermatt is located at the north end of a hanging valley with breathtaking views of surrounding peaks. This morning you will bear witness to some of the most spectacular views as you ascend the Swiss Alps on the historic Gornergrat Bahn. For 125 years, this cog railway has been taking passengers to 3,100 metres above sea level, with mountains and glaciers as far as the eye can see, and the magnificent Matterhorn present at every moment, a craggy triangular peak standing sentinel in the Alps. 

    This afternoon is at leisure to explore Zermatt on your own. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, its main street, where you’ll find everything from souvenirs to jewellery to traditional food mongers selling baked goods, cheese and chocolate.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
21. Day 21
    Zermatt > Stresa

    Sun, Aug 25, 2024

    Driving along winding alpine roads with views of snow-capped mountains, cross the border into Italy towards Stresa, an elegant lakeside town that prospered during the 19th and 20th centuries when it was a playground for the wealthy and a muse for creatives such as Ernest Hemingway who based his 1929 novel A Farewell to Arms here. Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel where you’ll enjoy beautiful rooms overlooking the crystal blue waters of Lake Maggiore. 

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
22. Day 22
    Stresa > Lugano

    Mon, Aug 26, 2024

    Cruise Lake Maggiore, a stunning waterway with Switzerland on one side and Italy on the other. Pause along the way to visit the splendid Isola Bella, ‘the beautiful island’, which is home to a 17th century baroque palace and landscaped gardens that took centuries to complete. 

    This afternoon you’ll continue to Lugano, where you will spend the next two nights. Located on the shores of Lake Lugano and surrounded by impressive mountains, this city is a sight to behold.

    Although in Switzerland, the city has a unique Mediterranean flair, with its culture and language influenced by its nearest neighbour, Italy. Its historic town centre is a series of winding hillside stairways and terraces and resplendent with Italianate Lombardy-style architecture.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
23. Day 23
    Lugano

    Tue, Aug 27, 2024

    Spend the day in Lugano on a culinary excursion or set off to explore the city's surrounding peaks on today’s Scenic Freechoice.

    Freechoice:
    Cable Car to Mt. Bre: Journey by funicular to the top of Monte Bre, considered Switzerland’s sunniest mountain. The observation point from the top allows for breathtaking views across Lake Lugano and the Alps.
    
    Tastes of Lugano walking tour: Explore the highlights of Lugano with a local guide. Learn how the region’s cuisine has been influenced by Swiss and Italian flavours by sampling some of the local delicacies.

    Return to Lugano, where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Take a walk along the promenade that traces the glacial lakeside, where citrus and cypress trees grow thanks to the temperate climate.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
24. Day 24
    Lugano > St. Moritz

    Wed, Aug 28, 2024

    This morning you will drive to Andermatt, where you will board the Glacier Express for one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Relax in your first-class seat while you soak up views of snow-capped mountains, peaceful alpine meadows, rushing mountain streams and valleys, and the impressive 65-metre-high Landwasser viaduct as you weave your way to St. Moritz. 

    Glamourous St. Moritz is known as the birthplace of alpine winter tourism and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics, but before snow pursuits put it on the global map it was a coveted spa destination due to the mineral springs that bubble underneath its surface. You will spend the evening in this luxurious town, which is a spectacular sight year-round.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
25. Day 25
    St Moritz > Ötztal

    Thu, Aug 29, 2024

    From St. Moritz cross the border into Bavaria, Germany, where you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most iconic fairytale castles, Neuschwanstein. Built for King Ludwig II in the 19th century and inspired by an opera by acclaimed composer Richard Wagner, the castle is said to be one of the most photographed buildings in the world.  

    After your guided tour, you will travel to the Ötztal Valley, where you will spend the evening. Located on a picturesque plateau in the Tyrol region of Austria, this glorious resort town is a popular destination for skiing, hiking and mountain biking and swimming in its thermal baths.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
26. Day 26
    Ötztal > Salzburg

    Fri, Aug 30, 2024

    Today you will drive to Salzburg, via alpine valleys and the rugged hills of the Salzkammergut region. Surrounded by soaring peaks and on the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music, a Baroque old town where you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace, and Central Europe’s largest intact fortress, Hohensalzburg, which sits high above the rooftops with panoramic views of the city.

    On arrival in Salzburg, you will take a walking tour of the Baroque Old Town to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about some of its most famous residents, including Mozart, whose birthplace at No.9 is now one of the most visited museums in Austria. You will also visit Mirabell Gardens, which was used as a filming location in The Sound of Music, and hear about the Von Trapp family, who were the inspiration for the classic movie.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
27. Day 27
    Salzburg > Vienna

    Sat, Aug 31, 2024

    Today you’ll travel to Vienna, stopping in the city of Linz on the way. Located on the mighty Danube River, this city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle.  

    The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture, while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery. Join a local guide on a walking tour to discover the balance between the city’s vibrant history and contemporary living. 

    This afternoon you’ll arrive in Austria’s grand capital, Vienna, a city full of grandeur, where you will spend the next two nights in a luxurious hotel. Known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century. The city boasts the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, a legacy of the Habsburg monarchy.

    
    Meals: Breakfast
28. Day 28
    Vienna

    Sun, Sep 01, 2024

    Today your expert local guide will show you around Vienna, which oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

    Embark on a guided tour to see the city’s highlights such as the opulent Opera House, City Hall, the Hellenic-style Parliament Building, the sprawling landscaped gardens of Stadtpark, and Karlskirche (Church of St. Charles). 

    Enrich
    This evening’s Scenic Enrich: Tonight will be an unforgettable evening of classical music. Visit the grand Kursalon Renaissance Palace, where you’ll be treated to an exclusive Strauss and Mozart concert, followed by dinner.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
29. Day 29
    Vienna

    Mon, Sep 02, 2024

    Depart Vienna after breakfast, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.

    This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such, the journey may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

    
    Meals: Breakfast

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